If you're a data-hungry Verizon customer, a user in the deals forums at web site Slickdeals explains an interesting workaround that could get you unlimited data on your Verizon plan. Here's how it works:

Dial *611 from your Verizon phone, or 1-800-922-0204 from any phone.

Wait for computer CSR to go through the main menu. You will need your Verizon phone # and account PIN or last 4 of SSN.

Hit option 4.

When it asks you what you would like to do today say "Add a feature." You will be transferred to a live Verizon Customer Service representative.

If you have a 3G device (which includes all iPhones): Say you would like to add the $20 2GB 3G Mobile Hotspot FEATURE to your phone. When you add this MHS feature, you will be charged $20/month in addition to the $29.99 unlimited data plan.

If you have a 4G device: Say you would like to add the $30 Unlimited 4G Mobile Hotspot FEATURE to your phone. According to http://stopthecap.com/2011/07/12/...... , they may be able to locate this feature via referencing feature code #76153. When you add this MHS feature, you will be charged $30/month in addition to the $29.99 unlimited data plan.

After one of the MHS features above are added to your account, you will now have the $29.99 unlimited data plan, which can be verified via the My Verizon app on your device or at http://www.verizonwireless.com/myverizon

{OPTIONAL - if you don't want the Mobile Hotspot feature} Log into My Verizon and remove the Mobile Hotspot FEATURE from your account. It is recommended to wait at least a day to remove the feature. The $29.99 unlimited data plan should remain on your account.

If they say they can't add that feature to your plan, or that you must bundle your data + mobile hotspot service together as a single data plan, tell them thank you, hang up, and repeat the steps above.

Your mileage may vary, but if you're desperate for unlimited data, it may be worth a try. And as the poster points out, even if it does work, Verizon could easily roll back your unlimited upgrade.

You may remember that last July, Verizon ended its unlimited data plans. At the time, we detailed how to maintain an unlimited data plan for your smartphone, focusing on your cheapest alternatives. No matter what route you choose, you're going to have to pay a little extra for unlimited data, so go with what makes most sense for you. For what it's worth, I've only run over my 2GB cap on AT&T once, so even though I'd prefer the ease of unlimited, I'd find it difficult to financially justify paying extra for unlimited. Share your thoughts (and if you try this unlimited hack, whether or not it worked for you) in the comments.